Borderlands art director Brian Martel has been discussing the whys and wherefores of the dramatic change in art style with IGN revealing that UK pop band Gorillaz, Disney’s Pixar and Valve’s Team Fortress 2 gave the team inspiration for the sidestep.

“I think pop culture like The Gorillaz, Pixar, and our own concept art had the biggest impact,” he said.

“But of course Team Fortress 2 is an inspiration for any artist in the industry. Prince of Persia and Mirror’s Edge helped to reinforce our decision to try something radical.”

Martel goes on to say he believes the new style “reinforces the attitude and game play immensely,” and, if we’re being honest, we’re inclined to believe him. Why? Look here and here.